U.K. Retreats on Plan to Require ‘BritCard’ ID for Workers

New York Times - WorldCenter-LeftEN 3 min read 100% complete by Lynsey ChutelJanuary 14, 2026 at 03:21 PM

AI Summary

medium article 3 min

The U.K. government is revising its plan to require a single digital ID, known as the BritCard, for workers. Announced in September by Prime Minister Keir Starmer as a means to deter undocumented migrants, the BritCard was initially intended as the sole method for proving the right to work in Britain. However, officials stated on Wednesday that alternative digital methods, such as e-visas or e-passports, will also be acceptable. While the government aims to introduce a digital verification system to combat illegal immigration and streamline identity checks, the specific form it will take is still under consultation. This retreat follows other policy adjustments by the Starmer government since 2024.

Keywords

digital id 100% right to work 90% u.k. 80% digital verification 70% illegal immigration 60% britcard 50% policy reversals 50% keir starmer 40%

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New York Times - World
Political Lean
Center-Left (-0.30)
Far LeftCenterFar Right
Classification Confidence
90%

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